PATS Keys Lifespan?

[Scorpion8]

So I had a bunch of keys made up for my new-to-me 2006 XLT. They work great for being $3.50@ off Amazon. Question however, is that there is no "battery" for these keys save a capacitive storage system that gets refreshed when used. So.... the one original and one spare that I tossed in the safe, how long will they last, or do they ever lose their charge and "forget"?

Should each one be used once a year or so? Or how often?

 

[polizi212]

Transponder keys are built to last the life of the vehicle so I doubt you will have any issues with the keys put in storage!

 

[Scorpion8]

Even if they aren't used periodically? I'm not worried how long the key will last, just the PATs programming. Most capacitive memory devices need to be used periodically to refresh the charge that holds the memory. I can't believe that these keys would hold their programming "for ever" basically.

 

[polizi212]

Its a RFID type that has no need for a battery replacement, there are some that do have a battery, yours is not one.

"The process of key identification is similar in most automotive transponder systems. Once a key is inserted into the ignition lock and turned to one of the ‘on’ or ‘run’ positions, the induction coil that is mounted around the ignition lock sends out an electromagnet field of energy. The windings in the
transponder chip absorb that energy and power the electronic chip to emit a signal. The signal is usually an alphanumeric set of digits which is considered the Identification Code. The induction coil reads the signal and sends it to some type of computer device to recognize the signal. If the signal is recognized as being already in the computer’s memory the signal is accepted and other electronic components in the vehicle are set into motion to allow the starting of the vehicle or the continuation of the engine running".

If you care to read further here is a link to the above quoted material!

http://www.mysporttrac.com/mysporttrac/miscdocs/TransponderKeyTechnology.pdf